Based around Brooklyn, New York, pop-punks Stewart aim to surprise you with their joyous presentation of everyday disappointments. With their new album release, Kicks, comes a sound that is similar but all-too-different from what you're used to. Guitars handing out ear-catching melodies, smooth vocals in the form of lead singer Andrea Tarka and lyrics referring to everything from Lost to a man named Mr. Awesome. All of these and more can be found on Stewart's first full-length, Kicks.
One thing that is entirely noticeable about Stewart is the idea of singing upbeat songs about emotional times. It's a simple concept that catches you off-guard. It's not enough to blow your mind and have you confessing your love for the Brooklyn residents but it still turns a light bulb or two on. Maybe it's acceptance Andrea Tarka aims for. Although, the idea of irony in musical comprehension is pretty exciting. In no way is it a new idea, but it's definitely a rare one. In the beginning of "Ride The Wave", Andrea proudly claims "I'm so happy". At first, it's believable. That is, until she begins explaining why she should be happy, and it becomes apparent that she really shouldn't be content with her situation. This is a prime example of the great trick Stewart pulls on their audience.
Aside from the lyrics, not much more stands out as something by itself. And this is where Stewart finds it poison. Relying on the idea of female vocals over happy guitars is simply too insignificant to carry a band. While the praise I have given on the lyrics are 100% meant, it seems that the writers ( Mostly Andrea, although band members Kevin Cerovich and Jim Behrle each contributed a song on Kicks) never found their footing. They'd move from 7 tracks of heartbreak and then sing about a man named Mr. Awesome and the power of yourself. The songs by themselves are great representations of the band, but as an album they don't compliment each other. Something just seems to be missing.
But until the missing part is found, Stewart has plenty of hooks and jolly forms of disaster to please the ear buds and contribute a number of plays on your iTunes counter. Kicks can be purchased on Stewart's website. Be sure to catch them on their tour to World Cafe Live on July 7th in Philadelphia, Pa. Hopefully one day, Stewart will find themselves on tour with the likes of The Aquabats or Reel Big Fish.
Original article can be found here:
http://www.shakefire.com/reviews/cd/stewart-kicks
